American Socialism (7)

That the means of production and distribution should be owned by the State was an essential part of Karl Marx's socialist/communist vision.

Why then, in the United States - supposedly the land of capitalism and free enterprise, do nine States, including the Commonwealth of Virginia, have a monopoly on the sale of wine and liquor within their borders? While Virginia Governor McDonnell is considering privatizing the state owned liquor stores, there is serious doubt that the necessary legislation can actually be passed. The reason being that the business, even though it is state run, is so profitable that the politicians are reluctant to let go of the revenue.

While the situation is a hangover from the profoundly illiberal, but mercifully brief, era of prohibition, we do not live in those times now. The hypocrisy of political opposition to socialism, while the Commonwealth of Virginia simultaneously benefits from a state owned business that generates nearly $250 million in profits, would be hilarious if it did not say so much about the intellectual honesty - or lack thereof - exhibited by politicians.

The United States Constitution both celebrates, and requires, limited government. The intent of the founders was that government should only do what individuals, business, and the free market can not. Running liquor stores for profit scarcely falls into that category.

Better that Virginia's liquor stores are sold sooner rather than later. If there is an imbalance between spending and revenue, then the politicians should first look to spending cuts and, only if absolutely necessary, additional taxes.

Enough said!